Abstract

The last decade has seen profound changes in how library collections are developed and managed, driven by a rapidly evolving market place, more sophisticated user-expectations and fast-moving changes in technology. Digital resources are increasingly central to collections and this has changed the very concept of collection development and the role of the information professional. This topical edited collection is cross-sectoral and international in scope, drawing together the perspectives of practitioners and academics at the forefront of modern collection development. They explore how practitioners can take an active role influencing strategy in this new environment, draw on case studies that illustrate the key changes in context, and consider how collection development might evolve in the future. The collection is divided into four sections looking at the key themes: the conceptual framework including a review of the literature; trends in library supply such as outsourcing and managing suppliers; trends in electronic resources including the open access movement and e-books; and, making and keeping your collection effectively including engaging with the user-community and developing commercial skills. This will appeal to all LIS professionals but is essential reading for library and information students and all practitioners involved in collection development and management in academic, school and public libraries. It's also indispensable for those working in commercial and other special library sectors.
Maggie Fieldhouse is a Lecturer at the Department of Information Studies at University College London. She is module tutor for the Collection Management and Management modules on the MA Library and Information Studies Programme. Audrey Marshall is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Computing, Mathematical and Information Sciences at the University of Brighton and course Leader for the MA in Information Studies.
"...recommended to practitioners from all libraries. It can also serve as recommended reading for undergraduate students considering the spectrum of topics covered, the ease of writing style, and the excellent lists of references." - The Electronic Library
"I would recommend this book to all those interested in collection development...Its coverage is extensive and reflects a cross-section of the experience of librarians and information professionals." - Journal of Librarianship and Information Science